BREAKING NEWS

BREAKING NEWS

Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down

Editor’s note: During the course of a week, issues are covered that might not lend themselves to full editorial comment, but they are worthy of The Telegraph weighing in – thumbs up, thumbs down or neutral.

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Thumbs up to the city of Nashua and the school district for their recent completion of their United Way campaign. The pair of entities increased their participation rate by 48 percent, donating a total of $27,759. Altogether, 242 city and school employees participated in this year’s campaign. “Overall, we have a lot of gratitude for their generosity. Some of them don’t make a lot of money and are very generous in giving back. We appreciate that attitude in stepping up to the plate, and making a difference,” said Mike Apfelberg, president of United Way of Greater Nashua. Nashua Mayor Jim Donchess added, “United Way is a great organization for the city, because they raise money and distribute it to worthwhile social services and organizations. The money is spent wisely. The number of participants is up considerably along with the amount raised. We’re really happy with the campaign.”

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Thumbs down to the growing methamphetamines problem in Merrimack, recently reported by Police Chief Denise Roy. Merrimack Police Capt. Brian Levesque said the issue is severe, and has been growing for the past six-plus months. Levesque said the rise in drug offenses has caused an increase in other crimes, including domestic situation. As a result of the recent activity, the department has assembled a special investigation unit, focusing solely on drug crimes. Let’s hope this makes a significant impact on the problem, as area cities and towns continue to battle not only lower-level drug crimes but the opioid epidemic as well.

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Thumbs up to Southern New Hampshire Health System and Elliot Health System for their combined efforts in developing SolutionHealth. An information session was hosted Wednesday night at Nashua High School North so local officials and residents could find out more about the venture. With New Hampshire’s population being the second-oldest in the nation, increased demand has brought the two institutions together to offer expanded, quality health care. This certainly will make a difference over the coming years. Kudos to all involved.